"SALT LAKE CITY — As persistent drought and climate change threaten the Colorado River, several states that rely on the water acknowledge they likely won’t get what they were promised a century ago.

But not Utah.

Republican lawmakers approved an entity that could push for more of Utah’s share of water as seven Western states prepare to negotiate how to sustain a river serving 40 million people. Critics say the legislation, which the governor still must sign, could strengthen Utah’s effort to complete a billion-dollar pipeline from a dwindling reservoir that’s a key indicator of the river’s health.

Other states have had similar entities for decades, but Utah’s timing raised questions about its commitment to conservation and finding a more equitable way of surviving with less."

Sophia Eppolito and Felicia Fonseca report for the Associated Press March 10, 2021. [2]

SEE ALSO:

"The Megadrought Parching 77 Percent Of The Western US, Explained" (Vox) [3]

"Historic Drought Deepens In The West As Window For Rain, Snow Closes" (Washington Post) [4]

"Report Calls For “Radical Changes” To Colorado River Management" (KNAU) [5]